akins station

Monrovia News

World Headlines Affecting Liberia

Liberia has been appointed to chair the ECOWAS mediation team in the Guinea-Bissau political crisis, with President Joseph Boakai leading diplomatic efforts. Monrovia hosted the 3rd Annual West African Coastal Resilience Summit this week, resulting in a $50 million regional climate adaptation fund. The UN has praised Liberia's progress in implementing its peacebuilding roadmap but expressed concern about slow progress in addressing war crimes accountability.

The U.S. Embassy announced a new $15 million initiative to strengthen Liberia's justice sector, while China pledged support for the Monrovia-Buchanan highway project. Tensions remain with neighboring Sierra Leone over illegal fishing in shared waters.

Economic News

Liberia's economy shows signs of recovery with 4.2% GDP growth in Q2 2025, driven by improved iron ore exports and agricultural production. The Central Bank has maintained interest rates at 15% despite inflation dropping to 8.3%. The Liberian dollar continues to stabilize, trading at L$185 to US$1.

The government has signed a $120 million agreement with the African Development Bank to upgrade Monrovia's port facilities. However, unemployment remains high at 23%, with youth unemployment exceeding 40%. The new Monrovia Business Process Outsourcing Hub has created 500 jobs since opening in March.

Political News

President Boakai's administration faces growing criticism over delays in implementing promised anti-corruption reforms. The legislature remains divided over the proposed Dual Citizenship Bill, with heated debates expected next week. Monrovia's city government has launched an aggressive campaign to clear illegal street vendors, sparking protests in West Point and Paynesville.

Liberia has strengthened military cooperation with Nigeria, with 50 Liberian officers beginning counterterrorism training in Abuja. The U.S. has donated 20 armored vehicles to bolster border security against potential spillover from Sahel conflicts.

Entertainment News

Monrovia's entertainment scene is thriving with the return of the Liberia Music Awards on June 15 at the Ministerial Complex. Top nominees include Kobazzie, CIC, and Queen V. The Monrovia Film Festival (June 20-27) will feature 30 African films, including the Liberian documentary "War Women" about female ex-combatants.

Popular Nigerian artist Rema will perform at the SKD Sports Complex on June 22, his first show in Liberia. Local theaters are showing "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Returns" alongside the Liberian-produced drama "Jungle Justice."

Election News

Preparations for the 2026 presidential elections are intensifying, with the National Elections Commission announcing biometric voter registration will begin in September. Opposition parties have formed a coalition called the "United Democratic Alternative" to challenge the ruling Unity Party.

Monrovia's mayoral by-election scheduled for August is seen as a key test of political sentiment, with 7 candidates already declared. Observers note increasing youth engagement in the electoral process.

Legal News

The Supreme Court has ruled that former officials accused of corruption must face trial before claiming immunity, a landmark decision affecting several high-profile cases. Special Prosecutor Cllr. Edwin Martin has indicted 15 former officials in a $12 million COVID-19 funds misappropriation case.

In a historic ruling, a Monrovia court recognized common-law marriage rights for the first time. However, LGBTQ+ activists report increased harassment despite the decriminalization of same-sex relations last year.

Seven-Day Weather Forecast for Monrovia

Friday (June 13): Thunderstorms, 29°C / 24°C
Saturday (June 14): Cloudy with showers, 30°C / 24°C
Sunday (June 15): Heavy rain, 28°C / 23°C
Monday (June 16): Scattered showers, 29°C / 24°C
Tuesday (June 17): Partly sunny, 31°C / 25°C
Wednesday (June 18): Humid, 32°C / 25°C
Thursday (June 19): Thunderstorms likely, 29°C / 24°C

Local Events: Sports, Concerts & Festivals

Sports:

Lone Star faces Nigeria in a crucial World Cup qualifier at Samuel K. Doe Stadium (June 16)
The Monrovia Marathon (June 23) will see 3,000 runners competing for $15,000 in prizes

Concerts & Festivals:

Palm Wine Music Festival at Kendeja Resort (June 15-16) featuring traditional Liberian music
Monrovia Cultural Day (June 18) with performances and exhibitions across the city

Movies & Theater:

Golden Cinema is showing "The Black Messiah", a Liberian historical drama about Joseph Jenkins Roberts
National Theater presents "Eclipsed", the Liberia-produced version of the award-winning play

Fairs & Exhibitions:

Liberia Agricultural Fair at Fairgrounds (June 17-20) showcasing local farmers and agribusinesses
Monrovia Fashion Week (June 19-22) featuring top Liberian designers and West African talent

Final Notes

Monrovia continues its transformation as Liberia's political and economic heartbeat. While challenges remain in infrastructure and governance, the city's vibrant cultural scene and improving business climate point to a promising future. With major regional events and local festivals, June offers both residents and visitors a rich tapestry of Liberian life. The coming weeks will be crucial as the city prepares for electoral contests and major development projects that could shape Liberia's trajectory for years to come.